Planning a magical family trip to Lapland? There’s no place quite like it for a festive winter adventure. With its snowy landscapes, Northern Lights, and Santa Claus himself, Lapland offers a holiday that feels straight out of a storybook. However, package deals can be quite pricey, so you might be thinking about organising the perfect trip yourself? Here’s everything you need to consider for an amazing DIY Lapland Christmas experience.
First things first. Where is Lapland?
1. Where is Lapland?
Yes, Lapland is a real place; it’s a region that stretches into multiple countries. But the heart of Lapland is in Rovaniemi, Finland, often referred to as the "official" hometown of Santa Claus. It’s a popular starting point for Christmas travellers, offering plenty of holiday magic and winter activities. From Santa’s Village to reindeer rides, there’s no shortage of festive fun. If you prefer a less touristy spot or want to explore further, you’ll find plenty of beautiful alternatives.
For families who want to experience more of Lapland’s natural beauty, other towns worth visiting include:
- Ylläs and Levi: Great for skiing and snowmobiling.
- Saariselkä: Another fantastic ski area that’s less crowded.
- Pyhä-Luosto: Known for its stunning hiking trails, ski slopes, Northern Lights, and tranquil atmosphere.
(Tip: While Rovaniemi is easy to navigate without a car, many other areas are best explored with a rental vehicle, especially if you plan to visit multiple locations.)
2. Getting to Lapland
The drive from Helsinki to Rovaniemi could take up to 12 hours (Google Maps)There are several ways to reach Lapland, each with its own advantages. Here’s a breakdown of your options:
Flying
The quickest way is to fly from Helsinki to Rovaniemi, with a flight time of about 1.5 hours. During peak season, some airlines offer direct flights to Rovaniemi from other European cities. Be aware that prices can be steep during the holiday period, so book early for the best deals.
Train
For a more scenic approach, take a train from Helsinki to Rovaniemi. You can choose between day and night trains, with the night trains offering sleeper cabins (some even come with private showers). It’s a great way to turn the journey into part of the adventure, especially if the kids are excited about sleeping on a train.
Driving
If you’re up for a road trip, driving from Helsinki to Rovaniemi takes about 10-12 hours. The route is beautiful, but winter conditions can be challenging. Studded winter tires are a must, and if you’re not used to driving in snow, it might be worth considering other options.
3. Things To Do
Santa Claus Village
A visit to Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi is a must, even if it’s a bit of a tourist hotspot. You’ll find everything from reindeer sleigh rides and dog sledding to ice sculptures and, of course, a chance to meet Santa himself. While it’s easy to spend an entire day here, a few hours is usually enough to take in the main attractions. Keep in mind that many activities, such as reindeer rides, can be pricey. If you’re on a budget, you might find better options elsewhere in Lapland.
Alternatives to Santa Claus Village:
Ranua Wildlife Park
Located about an hour south of Rovaniemi, it’s home to polar bears, arctic foxes, and other Nordic animals. Ranua Resort is a great choice for animal-loving kids.
Joulukka
Joulukka is a bit more off-the-beaten-path than Santa Claus Village. It's a Christmas-themed forest park where you can join a more intimate and exclusive meeting with Santa and his elves.
Skiing and snowboarding
Lapland is a skier’s paradise, and there are plenty of family-friendly slopes to choose from:
1. Levi
Levi is the largest and most popular ski resort in Finland, offering a wide range of slopes for all skill levels, from beginners to experts. It's known for its well-groomed runs, modern facilities, and vibrant après-ski scene.
2. Ylläs
Ylläs boasts the longest runs in Finland and is a great choice for skiers who enjoy long, challenging descents. It’s less crowded than Levi, too.
3. Ruka
Although not as far north as some of the other resorts, Ruka is one of the most reliable for early and late-season skiing thanks to its extensive snow-making capabilities. It’s great for families and beginners.
4. Saariselkä
Saariselkä is a bit smaller than the other resorts but offers a unique mix of skiing and Lapland wilderness experiences. The resort’s gentle slopes are great for beginners and families.
5. Pyhä-Luosto
Pyhä is a gem for those who want to avoid the crowds and enjoy some of the most beautiful natural scenery in Lapland. It’s known for its quiet atmosphere and pristine slopes.
Snowmobiling
Snowmobiling is one of the most thrilling ways to experience Lapland's vast wilderness, offering an adrenaline rush as you glide over frozen lakes, through snow-covered forests, and along mountain ridges. The region has extensive snowmobile trails that cater to all levels, making it a popular winter activity for families and adventure seekers alike. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your snowmobiling experience:
Renting your own snowmobile
Consider renting a snowmobile in areas like Ylläs, Levi, or Saariselkä. These locations have dedicated trails that allow you to venture off the beaten path and explore at your own pace. Self-guided rentals give you the freedom to discover scenic, secluded spots and untouched landscapes that you wouldn’t find on a standard tour.
Guided snowmobile tours
If you’re not familiar with snowmobiling or prefer a structured route, guided tours are a great option. Most tours include safety instructions, equipment, and experienced guides who lead you to some of the most stunning viewpoints. Tours can range from short, two-hour excursions to full-day adventures that include other activities, such as ice fishing or a visit to a reindeer farm. You may even get to chase the Northern Lights on a night-time snowmobile tour!
Make sure to follow safety protocols. Helmets are mandatory, and wearing warm, windproof clothing is essential due to the extreme cold and wind exposure. If you’re travelling with children, most providers offer sleds that attach to the back of the snowmobile, allowing younger kids to join safely. Children who are old enough to hold on and follow instructions can usually ride as passengers.
Hiking and snowshoeing
Lapland’s landscapes are truly spectacular, featuring snow-laden forests and frozen waterfalls.
Pyhä-Luosto National Park offers some of the best winter hiking trails. With over 150 kilometres of marked trails, it’s suitable for both short walks and full-day treks. The park’s landscape includes ancient forests and frozen gorges. The Amethyst Mine, situated on the top of Lampivaara Hill, is a popular attraction where you can try your hand at mining a piece of your own amethyst.
In addition to traditional hiking, you can try snowshoeing, which allows you to walk on deep snow without sinking. Many national parks, including Pyhä-Luosto, rent out snowshoes and have well-marked snowshoe trails. This activity is suitable for all fitness levels and adds an extra element of adventure to your exploration.
Unlike the busier ski resorts, hiking trails in Pyhä-Luosto and other nature areas like Urho offer a more serene experience, with fewer tourists and a greater chance to spot wildlife such as reindeer or arctic hares.
Chasing the Northern Lights
Lapland is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights. While they’re never guaranteed, visiting between September and March gives you the best chance. There are guided tours from Rovaniemi and other towns, but you can also drive away from the city lights and try your luck on a clear night.
5. How cold is Rovaniemi in December?
In December, Rovaniemi experiences true Arctic winter conditions. Temperatures typically range from around -20°C to -10°C (-4°F to 14°F), but they can occasionally drop to -30°C (-22°F) or even colder, especially with wind chill. The air is often dry, which can make the cold feel slightly less harsh than in wetter climates, but it's still important to dress warmly with multiple layers.
Layering is key. Start with thermal underwear, followed by warm layers like fleece, and top it off with a high-quality, windproof outer layer. Good gloves, a hat, and warm, waterproof boots are essential. Many package tours and accommodations provide or rent snow suits for tourists, so don’t worry if you don’t have specialised winter gear.
6. Daylight hours in Lapland
Daylight hours are very limited due to Rovaniemi's location just below the Arctic Circle. Around the winter solstice (December 21), the city sees only about 2-3 hours of daylight per day, with sunrise around 11:00 AM and sunset by 1:30 PM. Even during these brief hours, the light is often dim, resembling twilight. The rest of the day remains in darkness or a faint glow, creating ideal conditions for spotting the Northern Lights.
7. Getting around
If you’re staying in Rovaniemi, public transport, taxis, and walking can get you to most attractions. However, if your itinerary includes more remote locations or you’re renting a cabin, you’ll need a car. Winter driving can be challenging, so if you’re not confident with snow or left-hand driving, stick to more accessible areas or rely on local transportation.
8. Where to stay
Glass Igloos in Kakslauttanen Arctic ResortAccommodation in Lapland varies widely, from cosy cabins to luxurious igloo hotels where you can watch the Northern Lights from your bed. Here are some options to consider:
- Cabins: Great for families who want a more secluded experience. Websites like Nettimökki offer cabin rentals, often at a better rate for weekly stays.
- Igloo Hotels: For a once-in-a-lifetime experience, stay in a glass igloo at resorts like Levi Igloos or Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort.
- Airbnb and Booking.com: You’re probably familiar with these sites. They offer a range of accommodation, from budget-friendly to high-end.
9. Staying connected
It's so handy having access to mobile data while travelling. And yes, eSIMs do work in Finnish Lapland. Cell coverage in Lapland is generally good, but it varies depending on the location and mobile network provider. The three main operators—Elisa, Telia, and DNA—cover most of Finland with their 4G networks, and 5G is gradually expanding, especially around major towns and popular tourist destinations like Rovaniemi.
In more populated areas and tourist hotspots, such as Rovaniemi and Levi, you can expect reliable 4G coverage, and even some 5G in certain spots. However, as you move into more remote or wilderness areas, coverage may become spottier.
Make sure to download offline maps and any necessary apps before your trip, as some remote areas might have limited connectivity.
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